Battery including adhesion layer adhering positive electrode collector of first power generating element to negative electrode collector of second power generating element, battery manufacturing method, and battery manufacturing apparatus

ABSTRACT

A battery is provided which includes a first power generating element, a second power generating element, and a first adhesion layer adhering the first power generating element to the second power generating element. A first positive electrode collector of the first power generating element and a second negative electrode collector of the second power generating element face each other with (i.e., via) the first adhesion layer. Between the first positive electrode collector and the second negative electrode collector, the first adhesion layer is disposed in a region forming a first positive electrode active material layer or a region forming a second negative electrode active material layer, whichever is smaller. The first positive electrode collector and the second negative electrode collector are not in contact with each other in a region in which the first positive electrode active material layer and the second negative electrode active material layer face each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/482,840, filed on Apr. 10, 2017, which in turn claims thebenefit of Japanese Application No. 2016-086781, filed on Apr. 25, 2016,the entire disclosures of which Applications are incorporated byreference herein.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a battery, a battery manufacturingmethod, and a battery manufacturing apparatus.

Description of the Related Art

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-135079 hasdisclosed a bipolar secondary battery in which adhesion portions areformed on parts of an adhesion surface at which adjacent bipolar batterylaminates are in contact with each other, and bipolar batteries locatedin a lamination direction are fixed by those adhesion portions.

SUMMARY

In a related technique, the probability of contact between a positiveelectrode collector and a negative electrode collector is preferablyreduced.

In one general aspect, the techniques disclosed here feature a batterycomprising: a first power generating element, a second power generatingelement laminated on the first power generating element, and a firstadhesion layer adhering the first power generating element to the secondpower generating element; the first power generating element includes afirst positive electrode collector, a first negative electrodecollector, a first positive electrode active material layer, a firstnegative electrode active material layer, and a first solid electrolytelayer; the first positive electrode active material layer and the firstnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each otherwith the first solid electrolyte layer; the first positive electrodeactive material layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of thefirst positive electrode collector in contact with the first positiveelectrode collector; the first negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the first negativeelectrode collector in contact with the first negative electrodecollector; the second power generating element includes a secondpositive electrode collector, a second negative electrode collector, asecond positive electrode active material layer, a second negativeelectrode active material layer, and a second solid electrolyte layer;the second positive electrode active material layer and the secondnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each otherwith the second solid electrolyte layer; the second positive electrodeactive material layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of thesecond positive electrode collector in contact with the second positiveelectrode collector; the second negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the second negativeelectrode collector in contact with the second negative electrodecollector; the first positive electrode collector and the secondnegative electrode collector face each other with the first adhesionlayer; the first adhesion layer is disposed in the region forming thefirst positive electrode active material layer or the region forming thesecond negative electrode active material layer, whichever is smaller,between the first positive electrode collector and the second negativeelectrode collector; and the first positive electrode collector and thesecond negative electrode collector are not in contact with each otherin a region in which the first positive electrode active material layerand the second negative electrode active material layer face each other.

According to the present disclosure, the probability of contact betweenthe positive electrode collector and the negative electrode collectorcan be reduced.

It should be noted that general or specific embodiments may beimplemented as a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computerprogram, a storage medium, or any selective combination thereof.

Additional benefits and advantages of the disclosed embodiments willbecome apparent from the specification and drawings. The benefits and/oradvantages may be individually obtained by the various embodiments andfeatures of the specification and drawings, which need not all beprovided in order to obtain one or more of such benefits and/oradvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery according toEmbodiment 1;

FIG. 2 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery according toEmbodiment 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 5 is a view showing a schematic structure of a batterymanufacturing apparatus according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a battery manufacturing method accordingto Embodiment 2;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of a first power generating element in amanufacturing process;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element in amanufacturing process;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element in amanufacturing process;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thefirst power generating element;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of theconstituent members of the first power generating element in amanufacturing process;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thefirst power generating element;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of eachpower generating element and each adhesion layer in a manufacturingprocess;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of eachpower generating element and an adhesion layer of a battery according toComparative Example 1 in a manufacturing process;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thebattery according to Comparative Example 1;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery according to Comparative Example 2;

FIG. 20 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery accordingto Embodiment 1;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 22 is a view showing a schematic structure of a batterymanufacturing apparatus according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2; and

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be describedwith reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1

FIG. 1 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery 1000according to Embodiment 1.

A part (a) of FIG. 1 is an x-z view (cross-sectional view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1000 according to Embodiment 1.

A part (b) of FIG. 1 is an x-y view (plan perspective view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1000 according to Embodiment 1.

The battery 1000 according to Embodiment 1 include a first adhesionlayer 110 (e.g., adhesive layer), a first power generating element 210,and a second power generating element 220.

The first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220 are laminated to each other.

The first adhesion layer 110 adheres the first power generating element210 to the second power generating element 220.

In this embodiment, the first power generating element 210 includes afirst positive electrode collector 211, a first negative electrodecollector 212, a first positive electrode active material layer 213, afirst negative electrode active material layer 214, and a first solidelectrolyte layer 215.

The first positive electrode active material 213 and the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 are laminated to each other with(i.e., via) the first solid electrolyte layer 215 interposedtherebetween.

The first positive electrode active material layer 213 is in contactwith the first positive electrode collector 211. The first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the first positive electrode collector 211.

The first negative electrode active material layer 214 is in contactwith the first negative electrode collector 212. The first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the first negative electrode collector 212.

In addition, the second power generating element 220 includes a secondpositive electrode collector 221, a second negative electrode collector222, a second positive electrode active material layer 223, a secondnegative electrode active material layer 224, and a second solidelectrolyte layer 225.

The second positive electrode active material layer 223 and the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224 are laminated to each otherwith (i.e., via) the second solid electrolyte layer 225 interposedtherebetween.

The second positive electrode active material layer 223 is in contactwith the second positive electrode collector 221. The second positiveelectrode active material layer 223 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the second positive electrode collector 221.

The second negative electrode active material layer 224 is in contactwith the second negative electrode collector 222. The second negativeelectrode active material layer 224 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the second negative electrode collector 222.

The first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 face each other with (i.e., via) the firstadhesion layer 110 interposed therebetween.

The first adhesion layer 110 is disposed in the region forming the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 or the region forming thesecond negative electrode active material layer 224, whichever issmaller, between the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222.

The first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 are not in contact with each other in a regionin which the first positive electrode active material layer 213 and thesecond negative electrode active material layer 224 face each other.

According to the structure described above, while a strong adhesion anda stable electrical connection between the first power generatingelement 210 and the second power generating element 220 are realized,the probability of contact between the positive electrode collector andthe negative electrode collector can be reduced. That is, at an endportion of the first positive electrode collector 211 and at an endportion of the second negative electrode collector 222, the thickness ofthe first adhesion layer 110 is not excessively large. Hence, the endportion of the first positive electrode collector 211 and the endportion of the second negative electrode collector 222 are avoided frombeing deformed by the first adhesion layer 110. Accordingly, theproximity and the contact between the first positive electrode collector211 and the first negative electrode collector 212 and the proximity andthe contact between the second positive electrode collector 221 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 can be prevented. Hence, forexample, even in an all-solid-state battery in which no separators areprovided between a positive electrode layer and a negative electrodelayer, a risk in which the positive electrode layer and the negativeelectrode layer are short-circuited by a direct contact between thepositive electrode collector and the negative electrode collector can bereduced. In addition, degradation (such as generation of cracks) of thefirst positive electrode active material layer 213, the second negativeelectrode active material layer 224, and the solid electrolyte layercaused by the deformation of the end portion of the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the end portion of the second negativeelectrode collector 222 can be prevented.

In addition, since the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 are not in contact with eachother by the first adhesion layer 110, the electrical conduction statebetween the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be formed to have a low resistanceand can also be stabilized. Hence, by a low resistance electricalconduction state, for example, even when the first power generatingelement 210 and the second power generating element 220 are charged ordischarged by a large current, generation of voltage loss, heat, and thelike can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the electrical conductionstate is stabilized, for example, even by a long-term use, generation ofcorrosion of the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be suppressed.

Details of the above effects will be described with reference to thefollowing Comparative Examples 1 and 2.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery 910 according to Comparative Example 1.

The battery 910 according to Comparative Example 1 includes an adhesionlayer 191, the first power generating element 210, and the second powergenerating element 220.

In this case, in the battery 910 according to Comparative Example 1, theadhesion layer 191 is formed to extend past the region forming the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 and the region forming thesecond negative electrode active material layer 224.

Hence, in Comparative Example 1, as shown in FIG. 18, outside of theregion forming the first positive electrode active material layer 213and the region forming the second negative electrode active materiallayer 224, the thickness of the adhesion layer 191 is excessively large.Hence, the end portion of the first positive electrode collector 211 andthe end portion of the second negative electrode collector 222 aredeformed by the adhesion layer 191. As a result, the probability ofproximity and contact between the first positive electrode collector 211and the first negative electrode collector 212 and the probability ofproximity and contact between the second positive electrode collector221 and the second negative electrode collector 222 are increased. Inaddition, the first positive electrode active material layer 213, thesecond negative electrode active material layer 224, and the secondsolid electrolyte layer 225 are degraded (for example, cracks aregenerated) by the deformation of the end portion of the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the end portion of the second negativeelectrode collector 222.

On the other hand, according to Embodiment 1, as described above, thethickness of the first adhesion layer 110 is not excessively large.Hence while a strong adhesion and a stable electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220 are realized, the probability of contact between thepositive electrode collector and the negative electrode collector can bereduced. In addition, the degradation (such as generation of cracks) ofthe first positive electrode active material layer 213, the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224, and the solid electrolytelayer can be prevented.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery 920 according to Comparative Example 2.

The battery 920 according to Comparative Example 2 includes an adhesionlayer 192, the first power generating element 210, and the second powergenerating element 220.

In this case, in the battery 920 according to Comparative Example 2, asshown in FIG. 19, the adhesion layer 192 is formed of a plurality ofisland-shaped small dots. That is, the adhesion layer 192 is not formedover the entire surface of the region in which the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the second negative electrodeactive material layer 224 face each other. Hence, the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222are in contact with each other in the region in which the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the second negative electrodeactive material layer 224 face each other.

Accordingly, in Comparative Example 2, the electrical conduction statebetween the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 is formed to have a high resistance. Asa result, for example, when the first power generating element 210 andthe second power generating element 220 are charged or discharge by alarge current, voltage loss, heat generation, or the like is liable tooccur. Furthermore, in Comparative Example 2, since the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222are simply in contact with each other, the electrical conduction statebecomes unstable. Accordingly, for example, by a long-term use, betweenthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222, defects (such as partial corrosion degradation)are liable to occur.

On the other hand, according to Embodiment 1, as described above, sincethe first positive electrode collector 211 is not in contact with thesecond negative electrode collector 222 by the first adhesion layer 110,the electrical conduction state between the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222 can beformed to have a low resistance and can also be stabilized.

The battery 1000 according to Embodiment 1 has the structure in whichthe first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220, each of which is a single battery element (anall-solid-state battery cell), are connected in series with (i.e., via)the first adhesion layer 110 interposed therebetween.

In the battery 1000 according to Embodiment 1, the first adhesion layer110 may be a layer containing an adhesive. Alternatively, the firstadhesion layer 110 may be a layer formed of an adhesive. In this case,the adhesive may be an electrically conductive adhesive. As theelectrically conductive adhesive, for example, there may be used asilicone-based soft electrically conductive adhesive (such as TB3303G orTB3333C, manufactured by ThreeBond Co., Ltd.) or a silver-containingelectrically conductive epoxy adhesive (such as XA-874 or XA-910,manufactured by Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd.).

In addition, in Embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the first adhesionlayer 110 may be formed as a uniform and continuous film.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, the first adhesion layer 110 may be formedas a film having a uniform thickness in the region in which the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 and the second negativeelectrode active material layer 224 face each other.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, the constituent elements (that is, thepositive electrode collector, the negative electrode collector, thepositive electrode active material layer, the negative electrode activematerial layer, and the solid electrolyte layer) of the first powergenerating element 210 each may be formed of the same material and inthe same region as that corresponding to that of the second powergenerating element 220 or may be formed of a different material and in adifferent region from that corresponding to that of the second powergenerating element 220.

As the positive electrode collector, for example, metal foil, such asSUS foil or Al foil, may be used. The thickness of the positiveelectrode collector may be, for example, 5 to 100 μm.

The positive electrode active material layer is a layer containing apositive electrode active material. As the positive electrode activematerial contained in the positive electrode active material layer, aknown positive electrode active material (such as lithium cobaltate orLiNO) may be used. As the positive electrode active material, variousmaterials capable of releasing and inserting Li may be used.

In addition, as a material contained in the positive electrode activematerial layer, a known solid electrolyte (such as an inorganic solidelectrolyte) may be used. As the inorganic solid electrolyte, a sulfidesolid electrolyte or an oxide solid electrolyte may be used. As thesulfide solid electrolyte, for example, a mixture containing Li₂S andP₂S₅ may be used. The surface of the positive electrode active materialmay be coated with a solid electrolyte. In addition, as the materialcontained in the positive electrode active material layer, for example,an electrically conductive material (such as acetylene black) and abinder (such as a poly(vinylidene fluoride)) may be used.

As the negative electrode collector, for example, metal foil, such asSUS foil or Cu foil, may be used. The thickness of the negativeelectrode collector may be, for example, 5 to 100 μm.

The negative electrode active material layer is a layer containing anegative electrode active material. As the negative electrode activematerial contained in the negative electrode active material layer, aknown negative electrode active material (such as graphite) may be used.As the negative electrode active material, various materials capable ofreleasing and inserting Li may be used.

In addition, as a material contained in the negative electrode activematerial layer, a known solid electrolyte (such as an inorganic solidelectrolyte) may be used. As the inorganic solid electrolyte, a sulfidesolid electrolyte or an oxide solid electrolyte may be used. As thesulfide solid electrolyte, for example, a mixture containing Li₂S andP₂S₅ may be used. In addition, as the material contained in the negativeelectrode active material layer, for example, an electrically conductivematerial (such as acetylene black) and a binder (such as apoly(vinylidene fluoride)) may be used.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, in the power generating element, theregion forming the negative electrode active material layer may belarger than the region forming the positive electrode active materiallayer. Accordingly, for example, defects (such as degradation inreliability) of the battery caused by Li precipitation may be preventedin some cases.

Alternatively, in the power generating element, the region forming thepositive electrode active material layer may be the same as the regionforming the negative electrode active material layer.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the region forming the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 may be smaller than the regionforming the second negative electrode active material layer 224. In thiscase, the first adhesion layer 110 is formed in the region forming thefirst positive electrode active material layer 213.

Alternatively, the region forming the first positive electrode activematerial layer 213 may be larger than the region forming the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224. In this case, the firstadhesion layer 110 is formed in the region forming the second negativeelectrode active material layer 224.

Alternatively, the region forming the first positive electrode activematerial layer 213 may be the same as the region forming the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224. In this case, the firstadhesion layer 110 is formed in the region forming the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 (=the region forming the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224).

The solid electrolyte layer is a layer containing a solid electrolyte.As the solid electrolyte contained in the solid electrolyte layer, aknown solid electrolyte (such as an inorganic solid electrolyte) may beused. As the inorganic solid electrolyte, for example, a sulfide solidelectrolyte or an oxide solid electrolyte may be used. As the sulfidesolid electrolyte, for example, a mixture containing Li₂S and P₂S₅ maybe used. In addition, as the material contained in the solidelectrolyte, for example, a binder (such as a poly(vinylidene fluoride))may be used.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, in the power generating element, thesolid electrolyte layer may be formed in a region larger than that ofany of the positive electrode active material layer and the negativeelectrode active material layer. Accordingly, short-circuit caused bythe direct contact between the positive electrode layer and the negativeelectrode layer can be prevented.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, in the power generating element, thesolid electrolyte layer may be formed in a region smaller than that ofthe positive electrode collector or the negative electrode collector.Accordingly, for example, when the collector is cut into a predeterminedshape, generation of cracks in the solid electrolyte layer or missing ofa part thereof can be suppressed. In addition, in the cutting,generation of cutting chips and generation of a cutting powder can besuppressed.

Alternatively, in the power generating element, the region forming thesolid electrolyte layer may be the same as the entire region of thepositive electrode collector or the negative electrode collector. Whencutting is performed after the solid electrolyte layer is formed overthe entire region of the collector, minute defects caused by cracksand/or missing are liable to be generated in the solid electrolyte layerin the vicinity of the cutting portion. As a result, the function of thesolid electrolyte layer may be degraded in some cases. However,according to the structure of Embodiment 1, the positive electrodecollector is not close to the negative electrode collector. Hence, theshort-circuit between the positive electrode and the negative electrodeis not likely to occur.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, in the power generating element, thesolid electrolyte layer may be formed so as to cover the negativeelectrode active material layer.

Alternatively, in the power generating element, the solid electrolytelayer may be formed so as to cover the positive electrode activematerial layer.

Alternatively, in the power generating element, the solid electrolytelayer may be formed so as to cover the positive electrode activematerial layer and the negative electrode active material layer.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the first adhesionlayer 110 may be disposed in a region corresponding to 50% or more ofthe region forming the first positive electrode active material layer213 or the region forming the second negative electrode active materiallayer 224, whichever is smaller.

According to the structure described above, by the first adhesion layer110 formed in a wider region, the mechanical joint and the electricalconnection between the first power generating element 210 and the secondpower generating element 220 can be more stabilized. In addition, by thefirst adhesion layer 110 formed in a wider region, the state in whichthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 are not in contact with each other can be morereliably maintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

FIG. 2 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery 1100according to Embodiment 1.

A part (a) of FIG. 2 is an x-z view (cross-sectional view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1100 according to Embodiment 1.

A part (b) of FIG. 2 is an x-y view (plan perspective view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1100 according to Embodiment 1.

In the battery 1100 according to Embodiment 1, the first adhesion layer110 is disposed in the entire region in which the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the second negative electrodeactive material layer 224 face each other.

According to the structure described above, by the first adhesion layer110 formed in a wider region, the mechanical joint and the electricalconnection between the first power generating element 210 and the secondpower generating element 220 can be more stabilized. In addition, by thefirst adhesion layer 110 formed in a wider region, the state in whichthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 are not in contact with each other can be morereliably maintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the region forming thefirst positive electrode active material layer 213 is included in theregion forming the second negative electrode active material layer 224.Hence, the region in which the first positive electrode active materiallayer 213 and the second negative electrode active material layer 224face each other is the same as the region forming the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213. Accordingly, in the example shownin FIG. 2, the first adhesion layer 110 is disposed in the entire regionforming the first positive electrode active material layer 213.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery 1200 according to Embodiment 1.

The battery 1200 according to Embodiment 1 further includes thefollowing structure besides the above structure of the battery 1000according to Embodiment 1.

That is, the battery 1200 according to Embodiment 1 includes a secondadhesion layer 120 (e.g., adhesive layer) and a third power generatingelement 230.

The first power generating element 210 and the third power generatingelement 230 are laminated to each other.

The second adhesion layer 120 adheres the first power generating element210 to the third power generating element 230.

The third power generating element 230 includes a third positiveelectrode collector 231, a third negative electrode collector 232, athird positive electrode active material layer 233, a third negativeelectrode active material layer 234, and a third solid electrolyte layer235.

The third positive electrode active material layer 233 and the thirdnegative electrode active material layer 234 are laminate to each otherwith (i.e., via) the third solid electrolyte layer 235 interposedtherebetween.

The third positive electrode active material layer 233 is in contactwith the third positive electrode collector 231. The third positiveelectrode active material layer 233 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the third positive electrode collector 231.

The third negative electrode active material layer 234 is in contactwith the third negative electrode collector 232. The third positiveelectrode active material layer 233 is disposed in a region smaller thanthat of the third negative electrode collector 232.

The first negative electrode collector 212 faces the third positiveelectrode collector 231 with (i.e., via) the second adhesion layer 120interposed therebetween.

The second adhesion layer 120 is disposed in the region forming thefirst negative electrode active material layer 214 or the third positiveelectrode active material layer 233, whichever is smaller, between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231.

The first negative electrode collector 212 and the third positiveelectrode collector 231 are not in contact with each other in the regionin which the first negative electrode active material layer 214 and thethird positive electrode active material layer 233 face each other.

According to the structure described above, while a strong adhesion anda stable electrical connection between the first power generatingelement 210 and the third power generating element 230 are realized, theprobability of contact between the positive electrode collector and thenegative electrode collector can be reduced. That is, at the end portionof the first negative electrode collector 212 and at an end portion ofthe third positive electrode collector 231, the thickness of the secondadhesion layer 120 is not excessively large. Hence, the end portion ofthe first negative electrode collector 212 and the end portion of thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be avoided from beingdeformed by the second adhesion layer 120. Accordingly, the proximityand the contact between the first negative electrode collector 212 andthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the proximity and thecontact between the third positive electrode collector 231 and the thirdnegative electrode collector 232 can be prevented. Hence, for example,even in an all-solid-state battery in which no separators are providedbetween a positive electrode layer and a negative electrode layer, arisk in which the positive electrode layer and the negative electrodelayer are short-circuited by a direct contact between the positiveelectrode collector and the negative electrode collector can be furtherreduced. In addition, degradation (such as generation of cracks) of thefirst negative electrode active material layer 214, the third positiveelectrode active material layer 233, and the solid electrolyte layercaused by the deformation of the end portion of the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and the end portion of the third positiveelectrode collector 231 can be prevented.

In addition, by the second adhesion layer 120, since the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231are not in contact with each other, the electrical conduction statebetween the first negative electrode collector 212 and the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 can be formed to have a low resistanceand can also be stabilized. Hence, by the low resistance of theelectrical conduction state, for example, even when the first powergenerating element 210, the second power generating element 220, and thethird power generating element 230 are charged or discharged by a largecurrent, generation of voltage loss, heat, and the like can besuppressed. Furthermore, since the electrical conduction state isstabilized, for example, even by a long-term use, generation ofcorrosion of the first negative electrode collector 212 and the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 can be suppressed.

In addition, as a material of the second adhesion layer 120, thematerial to be used for the first adhesion layer 110 may be used.

In addition, the second adhesion layer 120 may be formed from the samematerial, formed into the same shape, and formed in the same region asthat of the first adhesion layer 110.

Alternatively, the second adhesion layer 120 may be formed from adifferent material, formed into a different shape, and formed in adifferent region from that of the first adhesion layer 110.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, the constituent elements (that Is, thepositive electrode collector, the negative electrode collector, thepositive electrode active material layer, the negative electrode activematerial layer, and the solid electrolyte layer) of the first powergenerating element 210, the second power generating element 220, and thethird power generating element 230 may be respectively formed from thesame materials or different materials and may be respectively formed inthe same regions or different regions.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the region forming the third positiveelectrode active material layer 233 may be smaller than the regionforming the first negative electrode active material layer 214. In thiscase, the second adhesion layer 120 is disposed in the region formingthe third positive electrode active material layer 233.

Alternatively, the region forming the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 may be larger than the region forming the firstnegative electrode active material layer 214. In this case, the secondadhesion layer 120 is disposed in the region forming the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214.

Alternatively, the region forming the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 may be the same as the region forming the firstnegative electrode active material layer 214. In this case, the secondadhesion layer 120 is disposed in the region forming the third positiveelectrode active material layer 233 (=the region forming the firstnegative electrode active material layer 214).

In addition, in Embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 3, the second adhesionlayer 120 is disposed in a region corresponding to 50% or more of theregion forming the first negative electrode active material layer 214 orthe region forming the third positive electrode active material layer233, whichever is smaller.

According to the structure described above, by the second adhesion layer120 formed in a wider region, the mechanical joint and the electricalconnection between the first power generating element 210 and the thirdpower generating element 230 can be more stabilized. In addition, by thesecond adhesion layer 120 formed in a wider region, the state in whichthe first negative electrode collector 212 and the third positiveelectrode collector 231 are not in contact with each other can be morereliably maintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery 1300 according to Embodiment 1.

In the battery 1300 according to Embodiment 1, the second adhesion layer120 is formed in the entire region in which the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 and the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 face each other.

According to the structure described above, by the second adhesion layer120 formed in a wider region, the mechanical joint and the electricalconnection between the first power generating element 210 and the thirdpower generating element 230 can be more stabilized. In addition, by thesecond adhesion layer 120 formed in a wider region, the state in whichthe first negative electrode collector 212 and the third positiveelectrode collector 231 are not in contact with each other can be morereliably maintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 4, the region forming thethird positive electrode active material layer 233 is included in theregion forming the first negative electrode active material layer 214.Hence, the region in which the first negative electrode active materiallayer 214 and the third positive electrode active material layer 233face each other is the same as the region forming the third positiveelectrode active material layer 233. Accordingly, in the example shownin FIG. 4, the second adhesion layer 120 is formed in the entire regionforming the third positive electrode active material layer 233.

FIG. 20 is a view showing a schematic structure of a battery 1400according to Embodiment 1.

A part (a) of FIG. 20 is an x-z view (cross-sectional view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1.

A part (b) of FIG. 20 is an x-y view (plan perspective view) showing aschematic structure of the battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1.

The battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1 includes the followingstructure besides the structure of the above battery 1000 according toEmbodiment 1.

That is, the battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1 includes a firstspace holding body 710 (e.g., gap holding body).

The first space holding body 710 is a member holding the space betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220.

The first space holding body 710 is disposed between the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222at a position at which the first adhesion layer 110 is not disposed.

According to the structure described above, by the first space holdingbody 710, the space between the first positive electrode collector 211and the second negative electrode collector 222 can be held. Hence, atthe position at which the first adhesion layer 110 is not disposed, thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be suppressed from being deformed (for example, beingcloser to or apart from each other). For example, even when thethickness of the first adhesion layer 110 is large, by the first spaceholding body 710, the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 can be suppressed from beingdeformed. Accordingly, generation of missing and the like of the activematerial and/or the solid electrolyte caused by the deformation of thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and/or the second negativeelectrode collector 222 can be suppressed.

In addition, in the battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1, as shown inFIG. 20, the first space holding body 710 may be disposed so as tosurround (i.e., with surrounding) the periphery of the first adhesionlayer 110.

According to the structure described above, by the first space holdingbody 710 surrounding the periphery of the first adhesion layer 110, thespace between the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be more reliably held. As a result,generation of missing and the like of the active material and/or thesolid electrolyte caused by the deformation of the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and/or the second negative electrode collector222 can be further suppressed.

In addition, in the battery 1400 according to Embodiment 1, as shown inFIG. 20, the first space holding body 710 may be in contact with thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222. For example, one principal surface (such as a part or theentire thereof) of the first space holding body 710 may be in closecontact (for example, may be joined) with the first positive electrodecollector 211. In this case, the other principal surface (such as a partor the entire thereof) of the first space holding body 710 may be inclose contact (for example, may be joined) with the second negativeelectrode collector 222.

According to the structure described above, the spread of the firstadhesion layer 110 can be blocked by the first space holding body 710.Accordingly, at the end portion of the first positive electrodecollector 211 and at the end portion of the second negative electrodecollector 222, the thickness of the first adhesion layer 110 can be moresuppressed from being excessively increased. As a result, the endportion of the first positive electrode collector 211 and the endportion of the second negative electrode collector 222 can be moreavoided from being deformed by the first adhesion layer 110.

In addition, as a material of the first space holding body 710, amaterial to be used as a generally known sealing agent may be used. Thematerial of the first space holding body 710 may be, for example, amaterial (an insulating material) having no electrical conductivity.Alternatively, the first space holding body 710 may be at least one of apart (a convex portion) of the first positive electrode collector 211and a part (a convex portion) of the second negative electrode collector222.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of abattery 1500 according to Embodiment 1.

The battery 1500 according to Embodiment 1 further includes thefollowing structure besides the structure of the battery 1400 accordingto Embodiment 1.

That is, the battery 1500 according to Embodiment 1 includes the secondadhesion layer 120, the third power generating element 230, and a secondspace holding body 720 (e.g., gap holding body).

The second space holding body 720 is a member holding the space betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the third power generatingelement 230.

The second space holding body 720 is disposed between the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231at a position at which the second adhesion layer 120 is not disposed.

According to the structure described above, by the second space holdingbody 720, the space between the first negative electrode collector 212and the third positive electrode collector 231 can be held. Hence, atthe position at which the second adhesion layer 120 is not disposed, thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be suppressed from being deformed (for example, beingcloser to or apart from each other). For example, even when thethickness of the second adhesion layer 120 is large, by the second spaceholding body 720, the first negative electrode collector 212 and thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be suppressed from beingdeformed. As a result, generation of missing and the like of the activematerial and/or the solid electrolyte caused by the deformation of thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and/or the third positiveelectrode collector 231 can be suppressed.

In addition, in the battery 1500 according to Embodiment 1, as shown inFIG. 21, the second space holding body 720 may be disposed so as tosurround (i.e., with surrounding) the periphery of the second adhesionlayer 120.

According to the structure described above, by the second space holdingbody 720 which surrounds the periphery of the second adhesion layer 120,the space between the first negative electrode collector 212 and thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be more reliably held. As aresult, generation of missing and the like of the active material and/orthe solid electrolyte caused by the deformation of the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and/or the third positive electrode collector231 can be more suppressed.

In addition, in the battery 1500 according to Embodiment 1, as shown inFIG. 21, the second space holding body 720 may be in contact with thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231. For example, one principal surface (such as a part or theentire thereof) of the second space holding body 720 may be in closecontact (for example, may be joined) with the first negative electrodecollector 212. In this case, the other principal surface (such as a partor the entire thereof) of the second space holding body 720 may be inclose contact (for example, may be joined) with the third positiveelectrode collector 231.

According to the structure described above, the spread of the secondadhesion layer 120 can be blocked by the second space holding body 720.Hence, at the end portion of the first negative electrode collector 212and at the end portion of the third positive electrode collector 231,the thickness of the second adhesion layer 120 can be more suppressedfrom being excessively increased. As a result, the end portion of thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the end portion of the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 can be more avoided from being deformedby the second adhesion layer 120.

In addition, as a material of the second space holding body 720, theabove material to be used for the first space holding body 710 may alsobe used. The material of the second space holding body 720 may be thesame as or may be different from the material of the first space holdingbody 710.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, at least four power generating elementsmay be included. In this case, the adhesion layers may be provided atall the spaces between the at least four power generating elements.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, the power generating element may include aplurality of positive electrode active material layers, a plurality ofnegative electrode active material layers, and a plurality of solidelectrolyte layers. In this case, the power generating element may havea bipolar laminate structure in which the positive electrode activematerial layers, the negative electrode active material layers, and thesolid electrolyte layers are laminated to each other with (i.e., via)bipolar collectors interposed therebetween.

In addition, a battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment 1will be described in the following Embodiment 2.

Embodiment 2

Hereinafter, Embodiment 2 will be described. Description duplicated withthat of the above Embodiment 1 will be appropriately omitted.

FIG. 5 is a view showing a schematic structure of a batterymanufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2includes a laminating unit 300 and an adhesion layer forming unit 400.

The laminating unit 300 laminates the first power generating element 210and the second power generating element 220.

The adhesion layer forming unit 400 forms the first adhesion layer 110adhering the first power generating element 210 to the second powergenerating element 220.

The adhesion layer forming unit 400 forms the first adhesion layer 110in the region forming the first positive electrode active material layer213 or the region forming the second negative electrode active materiallayer 224, whichever is smaller, between the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222.

In the state in which the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 face each other with (i.e., via)the first adhesion layer 110 interposed therebetween, and also in thestate in which in the region in which the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213 and the second negative electrode activematerial layer 224 face each other, the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222 are not incontact with each other, the laminating unit 300 laminates the firstpower generating element 210 and the second power generating element220.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a battery manufacturing method accordingto Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment 2 is a batterymanufacturing method using the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000according to Embodiment 2. For example, the battery manufacturing methodaccording to Embodiment 2 is a battery manufacturing method performed bythe battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment 2 includes afirst adhesion layer forming step S1101 (=Step (a)) and a first & secondpower generating element laminating step S1102 (=Step (b)).

The first adhesion layer forming step S1101 is a step of forming thefirst adhesion layer 110 adhering the first power generating element 210to the second power generating element 220 by the adhesion layer formingunit 400.

The first & second power generating element laminating step S1102 is astep of laminating the first power generating element 210 and the secondpower generating element 220 by the laminating unit 300.

In the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, by the adhesion layerforming unit 400, the first adhesion layer 110 is formed in the regionforming the first positive electrode active material layer 213 or theregion forming the second negative electrode active material layer 224,whichever is smaller, between the first positive electrode collector 211and the second negative electrode collector 222.

In the first & second power generating element laminating step S1102, inthe state in which the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 face each other with (i.e., via)the first adhesion layer 110 interposed therebetween and also in thestate in which in the region in which the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213 and the second negative electrode activematerial layer 224 face each other, the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222 are not incontact with each other, by the laminating unit 300, the first powergenerating element 210 and the second power generating element 220 arelaminated to each other.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the battery according to Embodiment 1 can be manufactured.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, while a strong adhesion and astable electrical connection between the first power generating element210 and the second power generating element 220 are realized, theprobability of contact between the positive electrode collector and thenegative electrode collector can be reduced. That is, in manufacturingof the battery (for example, in a pressing step), at the end portion ofthe first positive electrode collector 211 and at the end portion of thesecond negative electrode collector 222, the thickness of the firstadhesion layer 110 is not excessively increased. Hence, the end portionof the first positive electrode collector 211 and the end portion of thesecond negative electrode collector 222 can be avoided from beingdeformed by the first adhesion layer 110. Accordingly, the proximity andthe contact between the first positive electrode collector 211 and thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the proximity and the contactbetween the second positive electrode collector 221 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be prevented. Hence, for example,even when an all-solid-state battery is manufactured in which noseparators are provided between a positive electrode layer and anegative electrode layer, a risk in which the positive electrode layerand the negative electrode layer are short-circuited by a direct contactbetween the positive electrode collector and the negative electrodecollector can be reduced. In addition, degradation (such as generationof cracks) of the first positive electrode active material layer 213,the second negative electrode active material layer 224, and the solidelectrolyte layer caused by the deformation of the end portion of thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the end portion of the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be prevented.

In addition, since the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222 are not in contact with eachother by the first adhesion layer 110, the electrical conduction statebetween the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be formed to have a low resistanceand can also be stabilized. Hence, since the electrical conduction statecan be formed to have a low resistance, for example, even when the firstpower generating element 210 and the second power generating element 220are charged or discharged by a large current, generation of voltageloss, heat, and the like can be suppressed. Furthermore, since theelectrical conduction state is stabilized, for example, even by along-term use, generation of corrosion of the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222 can besuppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according toEmbodiment 2, the adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the firstadhesion layer 110 in a region corresponding to 50% or more of theregion forming the first positive electrode active material layer 213 orthe region forming the second negative electrode active material layer224, whichever is smaller.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, the firstadhesion layer 110 may be formed by the adhesion layer forming unit 400in a region corresponding to 50% or more of the region forming the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 or the region forming thesecond negative electrode active material layer 224, whichever issmaller.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the first adhesion layer 110 can be formed in a wider region.Accordingly, the mechanical joint and the electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220 can be more stabilized. In addition, by the first adhesionlayer 110 formed in a wider region, the state in which the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 are not in contact with each other can be more reliablymaintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according toEmbodiment 2, the adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the firstadhesion layer 110 in the entire region in which the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the second negative electrodeactive material layer 224 face each other.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, by theadhesion layer forming unit 400, the first adhesion layer 110 may beformed in the entire region in which the first positive electrode activematerial layer 213 and the second negative electrode active materiallayer 224 face each other.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the first adhesion layer 110 can be formed in a wider region.Accordingly, the mechanical joint and the electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the second power generatingelement 220 can be more stabilized. In addition, by the first adhesionlayer 110 formed in a wider region, the state in which the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 are not in contact with each other can be more reliablymaintained. Hence, the electrical conduction state between the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2 mayfurther include a pressing unit 500 as shown in FIG. 5.

The pressing unit 500 presses the first power generating element 210 andthe second power generating element 220 after the first adhesion layer110 is formed between the first positive electrode collector 211 and thesecond negative electrode collector 222.

In other words, the battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment2 may further include a pressing step S1103 (=Step (c)).

The pressing step S1103 is a step of pressing the first power generatingelement 210 and the second power generating element 220 by the pressingunit 500 after the first adhesion layer 110 is formed between the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the first adhesion layer 110 can be pressed by pressureapplication together with the first power generating element 210 and thesecond power generating element 220. Accordingly, for example, the firstadhesion layer 110 can be thinly and uniformly spread in a wide region.Hence, the adhesion force and the electrical conductivity of the firstadhesion layer 110 can be more increased. As a result, while the firstpower generating element 210 and the second power generating element 220are more tightly adhered to each other, the first adhesion layer 110 issuppressed from being formed into a high resistance layer.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

In the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2,the laminating unit 300 may laminate the first power generating element210 and the third power generating element 230.

The adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the second adhesion layer120 adhering the first power generating element 210 to the third powergenerating element 230.

The adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the second adhesion layer120 in the region forming the first negative electrode active materiallayer 214 and the third positive electrode active material layer 233,whichever is smaller, between the first negative electrode collector 212and the third positive electrode collector 231.

In the state in which the first negative electrode collector 212 and thethird positive electrode collector 231 face each other with (i.e., via)the second adhesion layer 120 interposed therebetween, and also in thestate in which in the region in which the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 and the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 face each other, the first negative electrodecollector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231 are not incontact with each other, the laminating unit 300 may laminate the firstpower generating element 210 and the third power generating element 230.

In other words, the battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment2 may further include a second adhesion layer forming step S1201 (=Step(d)) and a first & third power generating element laminating step S1202(Step (e)).

The second adhesion layer forming step S1201 is a step of forming thesecond adhesion layer 120 adhering the first power generating element210 to the third power generating element 230 by the adhesion layerforming unit 400.

The first & third power generating element laminating step S1202 is astep of laminating the first power generating element 210 and the thirdpower generating element 230 by the laminating unit 300.

In the second adhesion layer forming step S1201, the second adhesionlayer 120 may be formed by the adhesion layer forming unit 400 in theregion forming the first negative electrode active material layer 214 orthe region forming the third positive electrode active material layer233, whichever is smaller, between the first negative electrodecollector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231.

In the first & third power generating element laminating step S1202, inthe state in which the first negative electrode collector 212 and thethird positive electrode collector 231 face each other with (i.e., via)the second adhesion layer 120 interposed therebetween, and also in thestate in which in the region in which the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 and the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 face each other, the first negative electrodecollector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231 are not incontact with each other, the first power generating element 210 and thethird power generating element 230 may be laminated to each other by thelaminating unit 300.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, while a strong adhesion and astable electrical connection between the first power generating element210 and the third power generating element 230 are realized, theprobability of contact between the positive electrode collector and thenegative electrode collector can be reduced. That is, in manufacturingof the battery (for example, in a pressing step), at the end portion ofthe first negative electrode collector 212 and at the end portion of thethird positive electrode collector 231, the thickness of the secondadhesion layer 120 is not excessively increased. Hence, the end portionof the first negative electrode collector 212 and the end portion of thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be avoided from beingdeformed by the second adhesion layer 120. Accordingly, the proximityand the contact between the first negative electrode collector 212 andthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the proximity and thecontact between the third positive electrode collector 231 and the thirdnegative electrode collector 232 can be prevented. As a result, forexample, even when an all-solid-state battery is manufactured in whichno separators are provided between a positive electrode layer and anegative electrode layer, a risk in which the positive electrode layerand the negative electrode are short-circuited by a direct contactbetween the positive electrode collector and the negative electrodecollector can be more reduced. In addition, degradation (such asgeneration of cracks) of the first negative electrode active materiallayer 214, the third positive electrode active material layer 233, andthe solid electrolyte layer caused by the deformation of the end portionof the first negative electrode collector 212 and the end portion of thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be prevented.

In addition, since the first negative electrode collector 212 and thethird positive electrode collector 231 are not in contact with eachother by the second adhesion layer 120, the electrical conduction statebetween the first negative electrode collector 212 and the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 can be formed to have a low resistanceand can also be stabilized. Hence, since the electrical conduction stateis formed to have a low resistance, for example, even when the firstpower generating element 210, the second power generating element 220,and the third power generating element 230 are charged or discharged bya large current, generation of voltage loss, heat, and the like can besuppressed. Furthermore, since the electrical conduction state isstabilized, for example, even by a long-term use, generation ofcorrosion of the first negative electrode collector 212 and the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 can be suppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according toEmbodiment 2, the adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the secondadhesion layer 120 in a region corresponding to 50% or more of theregion forming the first negative electrode active material layer 214 orthe region forming the third positive electrode active material layer233, whichever is smaller.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the second adhesion layer forming step S1201, thesecond adhesion layer 120 may be formed by the adhesion layer formingunit 400 in a region corresponding to 50% or more of the region formingthe first negative electrode active material layer 214 or the regionforming the third positive electrode active material layer 233,whichever is smaller.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the second adhesion layer 120 may be formed in a wider region.Accordingly, the mechanical joint and the electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the third power generatingelement 230 can be more stabilized. In addition, by the second adhesionlayer 120 formed in a wider region, the state in which the firstnegative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 are not in contact with each other can be more reliablymaintained. As a result, the electrical conduction state between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according toEmbodiment 2, the adhesion layer forming unit 400 may form the secondadhesion layer 120 in the entire region in which the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 and the third positive electrodeactive material layer 233 face each other.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the second adhesion layer forming step S1201, thesecond adhesion layer 120 may be formed by the adhesion layer formingunit 400 in the entire region in which the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 and the third positive electrode activematerial layer 233 face each other.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the second adhesion layer 120 may be formed in a wider region.Accordingly, the mechanical joint and the electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the third power generatingelement 230 can be more stabilized. In addition, by the second adhesionlayer 120 formed in a wider region, the state in which the firstnegative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 are not in contact with each other can be more reliablymaintained. As a result, the electrical conduction state between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

In the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2,the pressing unit 500 may press the first power generating element 210,the second power generating element 220, and the third power generatingelement 230.

After the first adhesion layer 110 is formed between the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222,and the second adhesion layer 120 is formed between the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231,the pressing unit 500 may press the first power generating element 210,the second power generating element 220, and the third power generatingelement 230.

In other words, the battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment2 may further include a pressing step S1203 (=Step (f)).

The pressing step S1203 is a step of pressing the first power generatingelement 210, the second power generating element 220, and the thirdpower generating element 230 by the pressing unit 500 after the firstadhesion layer 110 is formed between the first positive electrodecollector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222, and thesecond adhesion layer 120 is formed between the first negative electrodecollector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, the second adhesion layer 120 may be formed in a wider region.Accordingly, the mechanical joint and the electrical connection betweenthe first power generating element 210 and the third power generatingelement 230 can be more stabilized. In addition, by the second adhesionlayer 120 formed in a wider region, the state in which the firstnegative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 are not in contact with each other can be more reliablymaintained. As a result, the electrical conduction state between thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be formed to have a lower resistance and can also bemore stabilized.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, as the first power generating element 210,the second power generating element 220, and the third power generatingelement 230, power generating elements prepared in advance (powergenerating elements formed already) may also be used.

In this case, the laminating unit 300 may include a transportingmechanism (such as a roller) transporting a power generating element tobe laminated.

In this case, for example, after transporting the first power generatingelement 210 prepared in advance, the laminating unit 300 may laminatethe first power generating element 210 on the second power generatingelement 220 prepared in advance. Furthermore, for example, aftertransporting the third power generating element 230 prepared in advance,the laminating unit 300 may laminate the third power generating element230 on the laminate formed of the first power generating element 210 andthe second power generating element 220.

Alternatively, the first power generating element 210, the second powergenerating element 220, and the third power generating element 230 eachmay be formed by the manufacturing apparatus and the manufacturingmethod according to Embodiment 2.

In this case, the laminating unit 300 may include a power generatingelement forming unit forming the positive electrode active materiallayer, the solid electrolyte layer, and the negative electrode activematerial layer on the collectors. The power generating element formingunit may include a coating mechanism coating an active material or asolid electrolyte which is a coating agent. The power generating elementforming unit may include, for example, an ejecting mechanism (such as anejecting port) ejecting the coating agent, a supplying mechanism (suchas a tank and a supply pipe) supplying the coating agent to the ejectingmechanism, and a transporting mechanism (such as a roller) transportinga collector or the like to be coated.

In this case, the laminating unit 300 may form the first powergenerating element 210 by the power generating element forming unit, forexample, on the second power generating element 220 prepared in advance.Furthermore, the laminating unit 300 may form the third power generatingelement 230 by the power generating element forming unit, for example,on the laminate formed of the first power generating element 210 and thesecond power generating element 220.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, the adhesion layer forming unit 400 mayinclude a coating mechanism coating an adhesive which is a coatingagent. The adhesion layer forming unit 400 may include, for example, anejecting mechanism (such as an ejecting port) ejecting the coatingagent, a supplying mechanism (such as a tank and a supply pipe)supplying the coating agent to the ejecting mechanism, and atransporting mechanism (such as a roller) transporting a powergenerating element to be coated.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, as an adhesion layer forming method (amethod for applying an adhesive), a generally known method, such asscreen printing, die coating, ink jet printing, or coating using adispenser, may be appropriately used in accordance with an adhesivematerial.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, the shape of the adhesive to be formedwhen being applied may be any one of a flat, a line, and a dot shape.Since the pressure is applied on the adhesive, regardless of the shapeof the adhesive to be formed when being applied, the adhesive is flatlyspread into an adhesion layer.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, the pressing unit 500 may include, forexample, a pressing mechanism (such as a press stage and a cylinder)pressing a power generating element by pressure application and atransporting mechanism (such as a roller) transporting a powergenerating element to be pressed.

For the mechanisms described above to be included in the laminating unit300, the adhesion layer forming unit 400, and the pressing unit 500,generally known devices and members may be appropriately used.

In addition, the battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according toEmbodiment 2 may further include a control unit 600 as shown in FIG. 5.

The control unit 600 controls the operation of the laminating unit 300,the adhesion layer forming unit 400, and the pressing unit 500.

The control unit 600 may be formed, for example, of a processor and amemory. The processor may be, for example, a central processing unit(CPU) or a micro-processing unit (MPU). In this case, the processor mayperform a control method (battery manufacturing method) disclosed in thepresent disclosure by reading of a program stored in the memory.

FIG. 22 is a view showing a schematic structure of a batterymanufacturing apparatus 2100 according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing apparatus 2100 according to Embodiment 2further includes the following structure besides the structure of theabove battery manufacturing apparatus 2000 according to Embodiment 2.

That is, the battery manufacturing apparatus 2100 according toEmbodiment 2 includes a space holding body forming unit 800.

The space holding body forming unit 800 forms the first space holdingbody 710. The space holding body forming unit 800 forms the first spaceholding body 710 between the first positive electrode collector 211 andthe second negative electrode collector 222 at a position at which thefirst adhesion layer 110 is not disposed.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing method shown in FIG. 23 further includes afirst space holding body forming step S1104 (=Step (g)) besides thebattery manufacturing method shown in FIG. 7.

The first space holding body forming step S1104 is a step of forming thefirst space holding body 710 by the space holding body forming unit 800so as to hold the space between the first power generating element 210and the second power generating element 220.

In the first space holding body forming step S1104, by the space holdingbody forming unit 800, the first space holding body 710 is formedbetween the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 at a position at which the firstadhesion layer 110 is not disposed.

By the manufacturing method described above, for example, the abovebattery 1400 shown in FIG. 20 is formed.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, the space between the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222 can be held by the first space holding body 710. Hence,the first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 are suppressed from being deformed (for example,being closer to or apart from each other) at the position at which thefirst adhesion layer 110 is not disposed. For example, even when thethickness of the first adhesion layer 110 is large, the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and the second negative electrode collector 222can be suppressed by the first space holding body 710 from beingdeformed. As a result, generation of missing and the like of the activematerial and/or the solid electrolyte caused by the deformation of thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and/or the second negativeelectrode collector 222 can be suppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2100 according toEmbodiment 2, the space holding body forming unit 800 may form the firstspace holding body 710 so as to surround (i.e., with surrounding) theperiphery of the first adhesion layer 110.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the first space holding body forming step S1104, thefirst space holding body 710 may be formed by the space holding bodyforming unit 800 so as to surround (i.e., with surrounding) theperiphery of the first adhesion layer 110.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, by the first space holding body710 surrounding the periphery of the first adhesion layer 110, the spacebetween the first positive electrode collector 211 and the secondnegative electrode collector 222 can be more reliably held. Hence,generation of missing and the like of the active material and/or thesolid electrolyte caused by the deformation of the first positiveelectrode collector 211 and/or the second negative electrode collector222 can be more suppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment2, the first space holding body forming step S1104 may be a step to beperformed after the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, the first &second power generating element laminating step S1102, and the pressingstep S1103 are all performed. Alternatively, the first space holdingbody forming step S1104 may be a step to be performed between any twosteps among the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, the first &second power generating element laminating step S1102, and the pressingstep S1103.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

As shown in FIG. 24, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, the first space holding body forming step S1104 may beperformed after the first adhesion layer forming step S1101 isperformed. In this case, the first & second power generating elementlaminating step S1102 may be performed after the first space holdingbody forming step S1104 is performed.

In this case, in the first & second power generating element laminatingstep S1102, the first space holding body 710 may be in contact with thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and the second negative electrodecollector 222. For example, one principal surface (such as a part or theentire thereof) of the first space holding body 710 may be in closecontact (for example, may be joined) with the first positive electrodecollector 211. In this case, the other principal surface (such as a partor the entire thereof) of the first space holding body 710 may be inclose contact (for example, may be joined) with the second negativeelectrode collector 222.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, the spread of the first adhesionlayer 110 can be blocked by the first space holding body 710.Accordingly, at the end portion of the first positive electrodecollector 211 and at the end portion of the second negative electrodecollector 222, the thickness of the first adhesion layer 110 can be moresuppressed from being excessively increased. As a result, the endportion of the first positive electrode collector 211 and the endportion of the second negative electrode collector 222 can be moreavoided from being deformed by the first adhesion layer 110.

In addition, the space holding body forming unit 800 may form the secondspace holding body 720. The space holding body forming unit 800 may formthe second space holding body 720 between the first negative electrodecollector 212 and the third positive electrode collector 231 at aposition at which the second adhesion layer 120 is not disposed.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

The battery manufacturing method shown in FIG. 25 includes, besides thebattery manufacturing method shown in FIG. 9, the first space holdingbody forming step S1104 (=Step (g)) and a second space holding bodyforming step S1204 (=Step (h)).

The second space holding body forming step S1204 is a step of formingthe second space holding body 720 by the space holding body forming unit800 between the first power generating element 210 and the third powergenerating element 230.

In the second space holding body forming step S1204, the second spaceholding body 720 is formed by the space holding body forming unit 800between the first negative electrode collector 212 and the thirdpositive electrode collector 231 at a position at which the secondadhesion layer 120 is not disposed.

By the manufacturing method described above, for example, the abovebattery 1500 shown in FIG. 21 is formed.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, the space between the firstnegative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be held. Hence, the first negative electrode collector212 and the third positive electrode collector 231 are suppressed frombeing deformed (for example, being closer to or apart from each other)at the position at which the second adhesion layer 120 is not disposed.For example, even when the thickness of the second adhesion layer 120 islarge, the first negative electrode collector 212 and the third positiveelectrode collector 231 can be suppressed by the second space holdingbody 720 from being deformed. As a result, generation of missing and thelike of the active material and/or the solid electrolyte caused by thedeformation of the first negative electrode collector 212 and/or thethird positive electrode collector 231 can be suppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2100 according toEmbodiment 2, the space holding body forming unit 800 may form thesecond space holding body 720 so as to surround (i.e., with surrounding)the periphery of the second adhesion layer 120.

In other words, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, in the second space holding body forming step S1204, thesecond space holding body 720 may be formed by the space holding bodyforming unit 800 so as to surround (i.e., with surrounding) theperiphery of the second adhesion layer 120.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, the space between the firstnegative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231 can be more reliably held by the second space holding body720 surrounding the periphery of the second adhesion layer 120. As aresult, generation of missing and the like of the active material and/orthe solid electrolyte caused by the deformation of the first negativeelectrode collector 212 and/or the third positive electrode collector231 can be more suppressed.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing method according to Embodiment2, the second space holding body forming step S1204 may be a step to beperformed after the first adhesion layer forming step S1101, the first &second power generating element laminating step S1102, the secondadhesion layer forming step S1201, the first & third power generatingelement laminating step S1202, the pressing step S1203, and the firstspace holding body forming step S1104 are all performed. Alternatively,the second space holding body forming step S1204 may be a step to beperformed between any two steps among the first adhesion layer formingstep S1101, the first & second power generating element laminating stepS1102, the second adhesion layer forming step S1201, the first & thirdpower generating element laminating step S1202, the pressing step S1203,and the first space holding body forming step S1104.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the batterymanufacturing method according to Embodiment 2.

As shown in FIG. 26, in the battery manufacturing method according toEmbodiment 2, the second space holding body forming step S1204 may beperformed after the second adhesion layer forming step S1201 isperformed. In this case, the first & third power generating elementlaminating step S1202 may be performed after the second space holdingbody forming step S1204 is performed.

In this case, in the first & third power generating element laminatingstep S1202, the second space holding body 720 may be in contact with thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and the third positive electrodecollector 231. For example, one principal surface (such as a part or theentire thereof) of the second space holding body 720 may be in closecontact (for example, may be joined) with the first negative electrodecollector 212. In this case, the other principal surface (such as a partor the entire thereof) of the second space holding body 720 may be inclose contact (for example, may be joined) with the third positiveelectrode collector 231.

By the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturing method describedabove, in manufacturing of the battery, the spread of the secondadhesion layer 120 can be blocked by the second space holding body 720.Accordingly, at the end portion of the first negative electrodecollector 212 and at the end portion of the third positive electrodecollector 231, the thickness of the second adhesion layer 120 can bemore suppressed from being excessively increased. As a result, the endportion of the first negative electrode collector 212 and the endportion of the third positive electrode collector 231 can be moreavoided from being deformed by the second adhesion layer 120.

In addition, in the battery manufacturing apparatus 2100 according toEmbodiment 2, the control unit 600 controls the operation of thelaminating unit 300, the adhesion layer forming unit 400, the pressingunit 500, and the space holding body forming unit 800.

In addition, in Embodiment 2, the space holding body forming unit 800may include a coating mechanism coating a space holding body materialwhich is a coating agent. The space holding body forming unit 800 mayinclude, for example, an ejection mechanism (such as an ejection port)ejecting the coating agent, a supplying mechanism (such as a tank and acylinder) supplying the coating agent to the ejection mechanism, and atransporting mechanism (such as a roller) transporting a powergenerating element to be coated.

Hereinafter, one concrete example of the battery manufacturing methodaccording to Embodiment 2 will be described.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element 210 in amanufacturing process.

As shown in FIG. 10, the first positive electrode active material layer213 is formed on the first positive electrode collector 211. That is, apaste-like paint in which a material of the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213 is kneaded with a solvent is applied on thefirst positive electrode collector 211 and is then dried, so that thefirst positive electrode active material layer 213 is formed. In orderto increase the density of the first positive electrode active materiallayer 213, after being dried, the first positive electrode activematerial layer 213 may be pressed. The thickness of the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 thus formed is, for example, 5 to300 μm.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element 210 in amanufacturing process.

As shown in FIG. 11, the first negative electrode active material layer214 is formed on the first negative electrode collector 212. That is, apaste-like paint in which a material of the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 is kneaded with a solvent is applied on thefirst negative electrode collector 212 and is then dried, so that thefirst negative electrode active material layer 214 is formed. In orderto increase the density of the first negative electrode active materiallayer 214, after being dried, the first negative electrode activematerial layer 214 may be pressed. The thickness of the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 thus formed is, for example, 5 to300 μm.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element 210 in amanufacturing process.

As shown in FIG. 12, the first solid electrolyte layer 215 is formed onthe first positive electrode active material layer 213. That is, apaste-like paint in which a material of the first solid electrolytelayer 215 is kneaded with a solvent is applied on the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and is then dried, so that the firstsolid electrolyte layer 215 is formed.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thefirst power generating element 210.

As shown in FIG. 13, a positive electrode plate shown in FIG. 12 inwhich the first solid electrolyte layer 215 is formed on the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 and a negative electrodeplate shown in FIG. 11 are laminated so that the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the first negative electrodeactive material layer 214 face each other with (i.e., via) the firstsolid electrolyte layer 215 interposed therebetween, and as a result,the first power generating element 210 is formed.

Alternatively, the first power generating element 210 may have thefollowing structure.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure ofconstituent members of the first power generating element 210 in amanufacturing process.

As shown in FIG. 14, the first solid electrolyte layer 215 is formed onthe first negative electrode active material layer 214.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thefirst power generating element 210.

As shown in FIG. 15, a positive electrode plate shown in FIG. 10 and anegative electrode plate shown in FIG. 14 in which the first solidelectrolyte layer 215 is formed on the first negative electrode activematerial layer 214 are laminated to each other so that the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213 and the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 face each other with (i.e., via) thefirst solid electrolyte layer 215 interposed therebetween, and as aresult, the first power generating element 210 is formed.

The first power generating element 210 as shown in FIG. 13 or FIG. 15 ispressed by pressure application. By the pressure application, the layersare each densified and are placed in a preferable joint state. In thiscase, when the layers are joined with each other, the surface formingthe first positive electrode active material layer 213 may be configuredso as not to extend past the surface forming the first negativeelectrode active material layer 214 which faces the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213.

In addition, in the above manufacturing process, the order of formingthe layers of the first power generating element 210 is not particularlylimited. In addition, for the formation of the layers of the first powergenerating element 210, for example, lamination, adhesion, transfer, andthe combination thereof may be appropriately performed.

By a formation method similar to that of the first power generatingelement 210 described above, the second power generating element 220 andthe third power generating element 230 are formed.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of thepower generating elements and the adhesion layers in a manufacturingprocess.

First, the first adhesion layer forming step S1101 is performed. Thatis, by the adhesion layer forming unit 400, the first adhesion layer 110is formed (coated) on the second negative electrode collector 222 in theregion forming the first positive electrode active material layer 213 orthe region forming the second negative electrode active material layer224, whichever is smaller (that is, in the region forming the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213), the first adhesion layer110 being located between the first positive electrode collector 211 andthe second negative electrode collector 222.

Next, the first & second power generating element laminating step S1102is performed. That is, by the laminating unit 300, in the state in whichthe first positive electrode collector 211 and the second negativeelectrode collector 222 face each other with (i.e., via) the firstadhesion layer 110 interposed therebetween, and also in the state inwhich in the region in which the first positive electrode activematerial layer 213 and the second negative electrode active materiallayer 224 face each other, the first positive electrode collector 211and the second negative electrode collector 222 are not in contact witheach other, the first power generating element 210 is laminated on thesecond power generating element 220 (that is, on the first adhesionlayer 110).

Next, the second adhesion layer forming step S1201 is performed. Thatis, by the adhesion layer forming unit 400, the second adhesion layer120 is formed (coated) on the first negative electrode collector 212 inthe region forming the first negative electrode active material layer214 or the region forming the third positive electrode active materiallayer 233, whichever is smaller (that is, in the region forming thethird positive electrode active material layer 233), the second adhesionlayer 120 being located between the first negative electrode collector212 and the third positive electrode collector 231.

Next, the first & third power generating element laminating step S1202is performed. That is, by the laminating unit 300, in the state in whichthe first negative electrode collector 212 and the third positiveelectrode collector 231 face each other with (i.e., via) the secondadhesion layer 120 interposed therebetween, and also in the state inwhich in the region in which the first negative electrode activematerial layer 214 and the third positive electrode active materiallayer 233 face each other, the first negative electrode collector 212and the third positive electrode collector 231 are not in contact witheach other, the third power generating element 230 is laminated on thefirst power generating element 210 (that is, on the second adhesionlayer 120).

Next, the pressing step S1203 is performed. That is, by the pressingunit 500, a laminate formed of the second power generating element 220,the first adhesion layer 110, the first power generating element 210,the second adhesion layer 120, and the third power generating element230 is pressed. In addition, the pressing direction (pressureapplication direction) is a direction shown by the arrow in FIG. 16.

By the manufacturing method described above, for example, the abovebattery 1200 shown in FIG. 3 can be formed.

In addition, the first adhesion layer 110 and the second adhesion layer120 each may be formed (coated) in a wider region. Accordingly, forexample, the above battery 1300 shown in FIG. 4 can be formed.

As described above, between the positive electrode collector of onesingle battery element and the negative electrode collector of anothersingle battery element, the electrically conductive adhesive is appliedand then pressed by pressure application. In this case, in the exampleshown in FIG. 16, among the positive electrode collector, the positiveelectrode active material layer, the solid electrolyte layer, thenegative electrode active material layer, and the negative electrodecollector, which form each power generating element, the region formingthe positive electrode active material layer is smallest. That is, theregion forming the positive electrode active material layer is includedin the regions forming all the other constituent layers. In this case,the region in which the electrically conductive adhesive is applied isset to be wide as much as possible so that the adhesion layer pressed bythe pressure application does not extend past the region forming thepositive electrode active material layer. That is, as shown in FIG. 16,by the use of the electrically conductive paste which is applied so asnot to extend past the region forming the positive electrode activematerial layer by the pressure application, the layers are joinedtogether by the pressure application. In this case, in the entire regionin which the adhesive is applied, the electrically conductive adhesiveis most strongly pressed, so that a thin adhesion layer is formed.Hence, in the adhesion layer thus formed, a portion having anexcessively large thickness is not formed.

In addition, the electrically conductive adhesive may be applied so thatthe adhesion layer pressed by the pressure application is formed in aregion corresponding to 50% or more (or 80% or more) of the regionforming the positive electrode active material layer. Accordingly, inthe region forming the positive electrode active material layer which isthe smallest region among those of the primary portions of the singlebattery element, a portion at which the negative electrode collector ofone single battery element and the positive electrode collector ofanother single battery element adjacent thereto are simply in contactwith each other is not allowed to be formed.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of powergenerating elements and an adhesion layer in a manufacturing process ofa battery 910 according to Comparative Example 1.

In a manufacturing method of the battery 910 according to ComparativeExample 1, as shown in FIG. 17, on the second negative electrodecollector 222, an adhesion layer 191 is also formed (coated) to extendpast the region forming the first positive electrode active materiallayer 213 or the region forming the second negative electrode activematerial layer 224, whichever is smaller (that is, the region formingthe first positive electrode active material layer 213).

That is, in the manufacturing method of the battery 910 according toComparative Example 1, the adhesion layer 191 is formed (coated) in aregion larger than each of the region forming the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 and the region forming the secondnegative electrode active material layer 224 (such as the entire regionof the second negative electrode collector 222).

In the state shown in FIG. 17 in which the adhesive is coated, thepressure application is performed. In addition, the pressing direction(pressure application direction) is a direction shown by the arrow inFIG. 17. Accordingly, in the region forming the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213, the adhesive is most strongly pressed, sothat a thin adhesion layer 191 is formed. However, the thickness of theadhesion layer 191 located outside the region forming the first positiveelectrode active material layer 213 is larger than that of the adhesionlayer 191 located in the region forming the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213. That is, in Comparative Example 1, as shownin FIG. 18, out of the region forming the first positive electrodeactive material layer 213 and the region forming the second negativeelectrode active material layer 224, the thickness of the adhesion layer191 is excessively increased. As a result, the end portion of the firstpositive electrode collector 211 and the end portion of the secondnegative electrode collector 222 are deformed by the adhesion layer 191.

On the other hand, by the manufacturing apparatus or the manufacturingmethod according to Embodiment 2, as described above, the thickness ofthe first adhesion layer 110 is not excessively increased. Hence, whilea strong adhesion and a stable electrical connection between the firstpower generating element 210 and the second power generating element 220are realized, the probability of contact between the positive electrodecollector and the negative electrode collector can be reduced. Inaddition, degradation (such as generation of cracks) of the firstpositive electrode active material layer 213, the second negativeelectrode active material layer 224, and the solid electrolyte layer canbe prevented.

In an all-solid-state battery, a solid electrolyte layer is used insteadof using an electrolyte liquid. Hence, the structure in which aplurality of batteries is connected in series can be advantageouslyformed. For example, there can be formed a bipolar all-solid-statebattery in which laminates (bipolar structures) in each of which apositive electrode active material layer and a negative electrode activematerial layer are formed on a front and a rear surface of a collectorare repeatedly laminated with (i.e., via) solid electrolyte layersinterposed therebetween and are connected to each other in series. Inaddition, a bipolar all-solid-state battery may also be formed in such away that after a plurality of single batteries, each of which is formedby laminating a positive electrode collector, a positive electrodeactive material layer, a solid electrolyte layer, a negative electrodeactive material layer, and a negative electrode collector, are prepared,the positive electrode collectors and the negative electrode collectorsare electrically connected to each other. When the adhesion type bipolarall-solid-state battery as described above is formed, the adhesionstructure is particularly important. Hence, according to the adhesionstructure of Embodiment 1 or 2, for example, a highly reliable bipolarall-solid-state battery suitable for a large current application can berealized.

The present disclosure can be preferably applied to a battery to be usedfor various electronic apparatuses, electrical appliances, electricvehicles, and the like, each of which is required to have easy handlingperformance, high reliability, large current characteristics, and thelike.

What is claimed is:
 1. A battery manufacturing method using a batterymanufacturing apparatus, wherein the battery manufacturing apparatusincludes a laminating unit and an adhesion layer forming unit, themethod comprising steps of: (a) forming a first adhesion layer adheringa first power generating element to a second power generating element,by the adhesion layer forming unit; and (b) laminating the first powergenerating element and the second power generating element, by thelaminating unit, wherein the first power generating element includes afirst positive electrode collector, a first negative electrodecollector, a first positive electrode active material layer, a firstnegative electrode active material layer, and a first solid electrolytelayer, the first positive electrode active material layer and the firstnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each other viathe first solid electrolyte layer, the first positive electrode activematerial layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of the firstpositive electrode collector in contact with the first positiveelectrode collector, the first negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the first negativeelectrode collector in contact with the first negative electrodecollector, the second power generating element includes a secondpositive electrode collector, a second negative electrode collector, asecond positive electrode active material layer, a second negativeelectrode active material layer, and a second solid electrolyte layer,the second positive electrode active material layer and the secondnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each other viathe second solid electrolyte layer, the second positive electrode activematerial layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of the secondpositive electrode collector in contact with the second positiveelectrode collector, the second negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the second negativeelectrode collector in contact with the second negative electrodecollector, in the forming step (a), the first adhesion layer is formed,by the adhesion layer forming unit, in the region forming the firstpositive electrode active material layer or the region forming thesecond negative electrode active material layer, whichever is smaller,between the first positive electrode collector and the second negativeelectrode collector, and in the laminating step (b), in the state inwhich the first positive electrode collector and the second negativeelectrode collector face each other via the first adhesion layer, andalso in the state in which in a region in which the first positiveelectrode active material layer and the second negative electrode activematerial layer face each other, the first positive electrode collectorand the second negative electrode collector are not in contact with eachother, the first power generating element and the second powergenerating element are laminated to each other, by the laminating unit.2. The battery manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein in theforming step (a), the first adhesion layer is formed, by the adhesionlayer forming unit, in a region corresponding to 50% or more of theregion forming the first positive electrode active material layer or theregion forming the second negative electrode active material layer,whichever is smaller.
 3. The battery manufacturing method according toclaim 1, wherein in the forming step (a), the first adhesion layer isformed, by the adhesion layer forming unit, in the entire region inwhich the first positive electrode active material layer and the secondnegative electrode active material layer face each other.
 4. The batterymanufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the batterymanufacturing apparatus further comprises a pressing unit, the methodfurther comprising a step of (c) pressing the first power generatingelement and the second power generating element, by the pressing unit,after the first adhesion layer is formed between the first positiveelectrode collector and the second negative electrode collector.
 5. Thebattery manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the batterymanufacturing apparatus further comprises a space holding body formingunit, the method further comprising a step of (g) forming a first spaceholding body holding the space between the first power generatingelement and the second power generating element, by the space holdingbody forming unit, wherein in the forming step (g), the first spaceholding body is formed, by the space holding body forming unit, betweenthe first positive electrode collector and the second negative electrodecollector at a position at which the first adhesion layer is notdisposed.
 6. The battery manufacturing method according to claim 5,wherein in the forming step (g), the first space holding body is formed,by the space holding body forming unit, with surrounding the peripheryof the first adhesion layer.
 7. The battery manufacturing methodaccording to claim 5, wherein the laminating step (b) is performed afterthe forming step (g) is performed, and in the laminating step (b), thefirst space holding body is brought into contact with the first positiveelectrode collector and the second negative electrode collector.
 8. Thebattery manufacturing method according to claim 1, further comprisingsteps of: (d) forming a second adhesion layer adhering the first powergenerating element to a third power generating element, by the adhesionlayer forming unit, and (e) laminating the first power generatingelement and the third power generating element, by the laminating unit,wherein the third power generating element includes a third positiveelectrode collector, a third negative electrode collector, a thirdpositive electrode active material layer, a third negative electrodeactive material layer, and a third solid electrolyte layer, the thirdpositive electrode active material layer and the third negativeelectrode active material layer are laminated to each other via thethird solid electrolyte layer, the third positive electrode activematerial layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of the thirdpositive electrode collector in contact with the third positiveelectrode collector, the third negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the third negativeelectrode collector in contact with the third negative electrodecollector, in the forming step (d), the second adhesion layer is formed,by the adhesion layer forming unit, in the region forming the firstnegative electrode active material layer or the region forming the thirdpositive electrode active material layer, whichever is smaller, betweenthe first negative electrode collector and the third positive electrodecollector, and in the laminating step (e), in the state in which thefirst negative electrode collector and the third positive electrodecollector face each other via the second adhesion layer, and also in thestate in which in the region in which the first negative electrodeactive material layer and the third positive electrode active materiallayer face each other, the first negative electrode collector and thethird positive electrode collector are not in contact with each other,the first power generating element and the third power generatingelement are laminated to each other, by the laminating unit.
 9. Thebattery manufacturing method according to claim 8, wherein in theforming step (d), the second adhesion layer is formed, by the adhesionlayer forming unit, in a region corresponding to 50% or more of theregion forming the first negative electrode active material layer or theregion forming the third positive electrode active material layer,whichever is smaller.
 10. The battery manufacturing method according toclaim 8, wherein in the forming step (d), the second adhesion layer isformed, by the adhesion layer forming unit, in the entire region inwhich the first negative electrode active material layer and the thirdpositive electrode active material layer face each other.
 11. Thebattery manufacturing method according to claim 8, wherein the batterymanufacturing apparatus further comprises a pressing unit, the methodfurther comprising a step of (f) pressing the first power generatingelement, the second power generating element, and the third powergenerating element, by the pressing unit, after the first adhesion layeris formed between the first positive electrode collector and the secondnegative electrode collector, and after the second adhesion layer isformed between the first negative electrode collector and the thirdpositive electrode collector,
 12. The battery manufacturing methodaccording to claim 8, wherein the battery manufacturing apparatusfurther comprises a space holding body forming unit, the method furthercomprising a step of (h) forming a second space holding body, by thespace holding body forming unit, between the first power generatingelement and the third power generating element, wherein in the formingstep (h), by the space holding body forming unit, the second spaceholding body is formed between the first negative electrode collectorand the third positive electrode collector at a position at which thesecond adhesion layer is not disposed.
 13. The battery manufacturingmethod according to claim 12, wherein in the forming step (h), by thespace holding body forming unit, the second space holding body is formedwith surrounding the periphery of the second adhesion layer.
 14. Thebattery manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein thelaminating step (e) is performed after the forming step (h) isperformed, and in the laminating step (e), the second space holding bodyis brought into contact with the first negative electrode collector andthe third positive electrode collector.
 15. A battery manufacturingapparatus comprising: an adhesion layer forming unit that forms a firstadhesion layer which adheres a first power generating element to asecond power generating element; and a laminating unit that laminatesthe first power generating element and the second power generatingelement, wherein the first power generating element includes a firstpositive electrode collector, a first negative electrode collector, afirst positive electrode active material layer, a first negativeelectrode active material layer, and a first solid electrolyte layer,the first positive electrode active material layer and the firstnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each other viathe first solid electrolyte layer, the first positive electrode activematerial layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of the firstpositive electrode collector in contact with the first positiveelectrode collector, the first negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the first negativeelectrode collector in contact with the first negative electrodecollector, the second power generating element includes a secondpositive electrode collector, a second negative electrode collector, asecond positive electrode active material layer, a second negativeelectrode active material layer, and a second solid electrolyte layer,the second positive electrode active material layer and the secondnegative electrode active material layer are laminated to each other viathe second solid electrolyte layer, the second positive electrode activematerial layer is disposed in a region smaller than that of the secondpositive electrode collector in contact with the second positiveelectrode collector, the second negative electrode active material layeris disposed in a region smaller than that of the second negativeelectrode collector in contact with the second negative electrodecollector, the adhesion layer forming unit forms the first adhesionlayer in the region forming the first positive electrode active materiallayer or the region forming the second negative electrode activematerial layer, whichever is smaller, between the first positiveelectrode collector and the second negative electrode collector, and inthe state in which the first positive electrode collector and the secondnegative electrode collector face each other via the first adhesionlayer, and also in the state in which in a region in which the firstpositive electrode active material layer and the second negativeelectrode active material layer face each other, the first positiveelectrode collector and the second negative electrode collector are notin contact with each other, the laminating unit laminates the firstpower generating element and the second power generating element.